The bill amends section 4.1-01-20.1 of the North Dakota Century Code to enhance the bioscience innovation grant program. It establishes a collaboration between the commissioner and a local association with bioscience experience to develop and administer the program. The bill removes the requirement for the commissioner to collaborate with the Department of Commerce when awarding grants and instead outlines specific responsibilities for the collaborating association, including promoting the program, recruiting organizations, determining applicant eligibility, and conducting performance reviews. Additionally, the commissioner may reimburse the collaborating association up to $600,000 per biennium for incurred costs and services.

The bill also clarifies eligibility criteria for bioscience businesses seeking grant funds, specifying that they must employ at least two individuals, have documented annual sales below $2.5 million, and be registered in good standing in the state. It expands the committee responsible for awarding grants to include representatives from the University of North Dakota and North Dakota State University, alongside existing members from the Department of Agriculture and the bioscience association. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that grant funds cannot be used for capital improvements, academic programming, or workforce training, ensuring that the focus remains on supporting bioscience innovation and commercialization.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 4.1-01-20.1